The Sentence That Can Change Your Life

Skeptical about the "one thing" that can change your life? Me, too. But this sentence followed through!

I'm always a bit skeptical when I hear about the "one word" or the "one action" that will change my life. How about you?

As you may have noticed, however, the title of this article suggests a similar claim. But mine is different (no, really!). :-)

It's different for one very important reason: YOU choose the sentence.

Let me explain.

No one else can decide what will impact you the most. Sure, the people closest to you may have wonderful ideas - but they are notyou. I might offer you a book recommendation (or 20) saying it will change your life - but how could I possibly know? I am notyou.

The things that change your life need to come from you.

They come from within.

So, I am not going to give you the words that will change your life, because only you can do that. I will, however, give you the sentence that - once you create it - can transform your work, leadership, and life:

Your Purpose Statement.

I first wrote my Purpose Statement about 18 years ago. Aside from a few tweaks here and there, it's changed very little since that time - though it's changed my life dramatically. I review it daily and it reminds me why I'm here, bolsters my energy, and provides an incredible sense of focus. Every morning when I scan it (a process that takes all of 5 seconds), I remember why I'm about to do what I'm about to do. It makes the hard work worthwhile and brings meaning and purpose to my actions and interactions.

Your Purpose Statement succinctly captures your values, passions, causes, and strengths in a single sentence. Among other things, knowing your purpose helps you:

Make decisions. When a request or opportunity presents itself, you can ask, "Does this help me fulfill my purpose?" Your 'yes' will be heartier and your 'no' will come easier.

Engage in meaningful work, no matter the job! Even mundane tasks become significant when viewed through the lens of purpose.

Build your ideal life. No joke: Once I uncovered my Purpose Statement I lost weight, started my business, clarified my vision, and many more positive 'side effects' from the process.

If you attended Spark, review your Purpose Statement and ask yourself how you are living and working in alignment with it. If you didn't attend Spark and don't have a written Purpose Statement yet, start with some reflection. Pull out a journal or open a new document and conduct some self-discovery. For example:And so, so much more.

What activities light you up?

What makes you lose track of time and feel stronger afterwards?

What challenge, concern, or problem would you love to solve?

What do you most want people to remember about you?

When do you feel at your very best - like you're doing exactly what you're meant to do?

See where these questions take you. Ask more of them (check the Journaling Challenge on my Instagram for ideas). Then let your answers start guiding you to work with meaning and live with purpose.